Old Pulteney 17 Year

Rich, bit oily,

Given the perfection of the caramel flavors on the 12-year-old, it's questionable whether a few extra years in sherry barrels can improve things. And indeed it's hard to argue that this is a better bottle. The honey notes are more emphasized -- candied nuts come to mind -- and the finish unreels like a fishing line hooked in a deep-sea catch. The spiciness of the barrels is pronounced but there's a somewhat astringent note at the end. Complex and intriguing, it's worth investigating, but you're more likely to come back for its younger sibling.